Meghalaya Deputy Speaker Timothy D. Shira Resigns; By-Election Scheduled for September 12

On Monday, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Speaker Thomas A. Sangma formally accepted the resignation of Deputy Speaker Timothy D. Shira, setting the stage for the election of a new deputy presiding officer. The resignation comes as part of a broader political context within the National People’s Party (NPP), ahead of the 2028 state elections. The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) convened immediately to review the session calendar and schedule the election for the new deputy speaker. According to Sangma, the BAC decided that the election will take place on September 12, coinciding with the final day of the ongoing autumn session of the Assembly.

Shira’s resignation reportedly follows instructions from the party’s high command, reflecting internal strategic considerations within the NPP. Political analysts view the move as part of a larger reshuffling of responsibilities ahead of the next state elections. Sources indicated that Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma contacted Shira late Sunday night, just hours before he submitted his resignation, signaling the careful planning and coordination involved in the party’s strategy. While the Speaker acknowledged Shira’s decision was guided by the party, he declined to comment further on potential nominees for the deputy speaker position.

Timothy D. Shira, 79, is one of the senior-most legislators in the 60-member Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and represents the Resubelpara (ST) constituency in North Garo Hills. He holds a degree from St. Anthony’s College under Gauhati University and began his career as a social worker before entering politics. Over the past two decades, Shira has emerged as a prominent figure in Meghalaya, known for his extensive experience and understanding of legislative processes.

This resignation marks the end of Shira’s latest tenure as deputy speaker, a position he has held across two consecutive terms. He was first elected as deputy speaker in March 2018, defeating Opposition candidate Winnerson Sangma by 20 votes, reflecting his significant standing within the Assembly. In March 2023, he was re-elected unopposed, further highlighting his influence and the confidence placed in him by fellow legislators. His resignation thus represents a sudden conclusion to a role that he has occupied with distinction for several years.

The timing of Shira’s resignation, strategically placed just before the final day of the autumn session, allows the Assembly to seamlessly organize the election of a new deputy speaker without causing procedural disruptions. The election on September 12 will not only fill the vacancy but also allow the NPP to position a leader in the deputy speaker role aligned with its broader electoral strategy. Observers note that the reshuffle within the Assembly reflects the party’s forward-looking approach to strengthening its organizational structure and preparing for the 2028 elections.

Shira’s extensive legislative experience, coupled with his background as a social worker, has made him a respected figure in Meghalaya politics. His leadership and familiarity with Assembly procedures have been critical in ensuring the smooth functioning of the legislative process. His resignation, therefore, represents both a political maneuver and a transition in the Assembly’s leadership dynamics.

In conclusion, Timothy D. Shira’s resignation from the deputy speaker post, accepted by Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, sets the stage for the election of a new deputy presiding officer on September 12. This move reflects the NPP’s internal strategic calculations ahead of the 2028 elections while marking the end of Shira’s distinguished tenure, during which he played a pivotal role in Meghalaya’s legislative and political landscape.